McObject Releases eXtremeDB Fusion, a Hybrid Embedded Database

McObject® has released eXtremeDB Fusion™, the embedded database system that combines the strengths of the on-disk and all-in-memory approaches to data management in a single database system. This unparalleled flexibility enables developers to tailor data management in order to optimize applications for speed and persistence, while taking advantage of the most cost-effective and physical space-conserving approaches to data storage.

McObject pioneered the field of in-memory embedded database systems (IMDSs) with eXtremeDB, its tiny footprint IMDS for embedded systems and real-time applications. Traditional on-disk databases cache frequently requested data in memory, but write all database updates, insertions and deletes through the cache to be stored on disk. In contrast, IMDSs eliminate disk access and store data in main memory, sending data to the hard disk only when specified by the application. IMDSs’ all-in-memory data storage means they are very fast, and their streamlined design reduces RAM and CPU demands.

However, on-disk database systems can bring advantages to an application. Some developers prefer the guaranteed persistence of automatic disk storage, and byte-for-byte, disk storage can be cheaper than memory. Disk storage can also take less physical space: RAM chips can’t yet approach the density of an 80GB micro-drive, for example. So for small form-factor devices with large storage needs, such “spinning memory” might be preferred.

Fusion Database: The Best of Both Worlds

eXtremeDB Fusion provides the best of both worlds, marrying in-memory database technology with the traditional disk-based database system. The result is a hybrid database for resource-constrained and high performance systems that affords developers the ultimate in flexibility.

eXtremeDB Fusion enables the developer to combine both database paradigms – in-memory and on-disk – in a single database instance. Specifying one set of data as transient (managed in memory), while choosing on-disk storage for other record types, requires a simple database schema declaration.

eXtremeDB Fusion’s on-disk features are uniquely configurable, including three levels of transaction logging , to meet the target system’s footprint, performance and durability needs; developer-specified maximum database size, which is especially important when the ‘disk’ is actually a flash memory file system; ability to save and re-use database cache across sessions—so a user can resume some activity when a device is switched back on, for example; and physical implementation of the database in just one file, to simplify maintenance, limit I/O and reduce size.

“McObject’s philosophy has always been to put the developer in charge. From the start, our eXtremeDB in-memory database has provided sophisticated tools for control in the development and run-time environments,” McObject Co-founder and CEO Steve Graves said. “eXtremeDB Fusion is the logical next step in that philosophy. With eXtremeDB Fusion, the developer fine tunes database storage modality according to the exact speed, footprint and other requirements of the operating environment and target system.”

eXtremeDB Fusion will be sold alongside eXtremeDB and will be available in High Availability, SQL and 64-bit editions, Graves said. Like eXtremeDB, eXtremeDB Fusion is available for many operating systems and with source code for porting to additional platforms.

About McObject’s eXtremeDB In-Memory Embedded Database

Since its launch in 2002, manufacturers have embedded McObject’s eXtremeDB in-memory embedded database system in set-top boxes, mobile phones, military/aerospace equipment, telecom and netcom gear, MP3 players, industrial control and in many other devices and real-time software applications.

eXtremeDB also provides sophisticated development capabilities, such as support for complex data and varied query methods, a powerful debugging environment including a self-diagnostic API that catches a wide range of common programming errors before they slip into runtime code, and optional XML and SQL interfaces.

About McObject

Founded by embedded database and real-time systems experts, McObject offers proven data management technology that makes intelligent devices smarter, more reliable and more cost-effective to develop and maintain. McObject counts among its customers industry leaders such as DaimlerChrysler, EADS, JVC, Tyco Thermal Controls, F5 Networks, CA, Motorola and Boeing. McObject, based in Issaquah, WA, is committed to providing innovative technology and first-rate services to customers and partners. The company can be reached at +1-425-888-8505, or visit www.mcobject.com.

McObject, eXtremeDB and eXtremeDB Fusion are trademarks or registered trademarks of McObject LLC or its suppliers. All other company or product names mentioned herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.